News And Updates
ManaSota 88 Requests EPA Site Investigation at Piney Point
Published By: The Bradenton Times
Environmental group Manasota 88 has officially requested that the EPA conduct a site investigation at Piney Point, a former phosphate mining site where a ripped liner lead to millions of gallons of hazardous discharge into local waters in 2011. The group says that the Florida Department of Environmental Protection has failed to safeguard the former plant and hopes federal involvement will lead to a more environmentally-sound outcome.
A federal case at Piney Point
Published By: Sarasota Herald Tribune
ManaSota-88, a local, nonprofit environmental group, recently made that plea to federal regulators.
Specifically, ManaSota-88 asked the federal EPA's Atlanta office to examine operations at -- and state oversight of -- the phosphate-waste mountains and enormous pools of polluted water at Piney Point.
The formal request seeks an EPA investigation of a 680-acre site in northwest Manatee County.
ManaSota-88 seeks EPA site investigation at Piney Point
Published By: Bradenton Herald
Local environmentalists have asked the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to investigate whether its water quality requirements are being met at Piney Point, where almost 170 million gallons of contaminated water cascaded into Bishop Harbor two years ago.
Phosphate mining damages environment, but also drives economy, study finds
Published By: Bradenton Herald
Environmentalists criticized the report, saying it is too narrow in scope to adequately address complex environmental issues, said Glenn Compton, chairman of ManaSota-88 Inc., a local nonprofit environmental research group. "Because of the limited ...
Florida state agency review of Piney Point oversight must address questions
Published By: Bradenton Herald
At the request of the ManaSota-88 environmental watchdog organization, Florida's Department of Environmental Protection is opening an internal investigation into the agency's botched handling of Piney Point. With a fresh spill of contaminated water looming, the agency's oversight of last year's Port Manatee dredging project and HRK Holdings LLC's Piney Point water storage site has begged for review for months.
State begins internal inquiry into handling of Piney Point operation
Published By: Bradenton Herald
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection's inspector general office has opened a preliminary inquiry into the agency's handling of Piney Point.
The review comes in response to a formal request for an internal investigation two weeks ago by local environmental advocacy group ManaSota-88.
Water level at Piney Point raises concerns
Published By: Sarasota Herald Tribune
The environmental nightmare known as Piney Point is back.
Contaminated water is again rising to uncomfortable levels at the former Piney Point fertilizer plant near Tampa Bay, renewing concerns about potential leaks to area waterways.
ManaSota-88 seeks investigation of state's role in Piney Point toxic spill
Published By: Bradenton Herald
An environmental advocacy group has requested the Florida Department of Environmental Protection open an internal investigation into the agency's handling of Piney Point.
Scientists lambaste phosphate mining report
Published By: Sarasota Herald Tribune
Several environmental scientists from area government agencies blasted a new federal report on Florida phosphate mining, saying it is fatally flawed and should be rewritten.
Study of phosphate mining's impact stirs industry's critics
Published By: Sarasota Herald Tribune
It paints an astonishingly rosy picture of phosphate mining. ... look and function if all 267109 acres of mineable land in Central Florida were excavated.
Amid lawsuit fears, Manatee OKs mine expansion
Published By: Sarasota Herald Tribune
Glenn Compton, chair of the environmental group ManaSota-88, said destroying wetlands near the head of the Myakka River could hardly be mitigated."It's the worst place they could have located a phosphate mine in the state of Florida, but there it is," Compton said. "To extend an existing mistake is inexcusable."
As for the legal concerns, Compton said, "The commissioners are there to protect the interests of the public and environment, not a corporation and its profit margins."
Ernst: Save taxes, pay Sierra Club to protect Florida
Published By: Sarasota Herald Tribune
Florida legislators didn't want private companies running state prisons, but why not hire the Sierra Club to take over some of the environmental regulatory work handled by state bureaucracies such as the Department of Environmental Regulation?
The idea is not as crazy as it sounds. Sierra Club Florida, People for Protecting Peace River (3PR) and Manasota-88 just negotiated additional protections for the Peace River watershed from Mosaic, the phosphate giant.
The battle over phosphate mining has shifted
Published By: Sarasota Herald Tribune
By Kate Spinner When Southwest Florida local governments gave up the fight four years ago against a phosphate mine that could have threatened the regional water supply, three small environmental groups pressed on. The groups' persistence paid off ...
Group files concerns to DEP on mine
Published By: Bradenton.com
A local environmental protection organization has filed concerns with state agencies over a Manatee County phosphate mine.
Mosaic files permit for more mining
Published By: Bradenton.com
The Mosaic Co. is seeking to extend its mining rights in Manatee County.
Peak Oil is Nothing Compared to Peak Phosphorus
Published By: Think of Thwim
Believe it or not, peak phosphorus is probably our biggest global emergency, but I don’t hear anyone talking about it.
Manasota-88 files concerns to FDEP on local phosphate mine Read more: http://www.bradenton.com/2011
Published By: Bradenton.com
A local environmental protection organization has filed a six-page letter to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection outlining its concerns with Mosaic’s Wingate mine.
Mosaic Pays Big for Young Putnam's Cake
Published By: TheLedger.com
The 9-year-old daughter of Florida Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam bakes one delicious chocolate hazelnut cake. The Mosaic Co., a fertilizer company and one of the county's largest employers, paid a record $10,000 for Abigail Putnam's cake at the Polk County Youth Fair Auction on Tuesday.
Appeals court rebuffs mining opponents
Published By: Bradenton.com
The legal battle over Mosaic Fertilizer’s plans to expand its Four Corners phosphate mine has ended in state court, but will continue in federal court.
Manatee's environmental scourge recast as asset
Published By: Herald Tribune
Across U.S. 41 from the Port of Manatee, a large grassy hill looms unnaturally over the flat landscape, overshadowing a cluster of new industrial silos. No trace remains of the fertilizer plant that operated here for 40 years, or of the company that drove it into bankruptcy and left behind a $144 million environmental disaster for taxpayers to shoulder.
Miners Dig In for a Fight
Published By: The Wall Street Journal
The phosphate mined for more than a century here in central Florida to make fertilizer has yielded thousands of jobs and countless harvests around the world. But environmental groups are arguing in federal court that the cornucopia extracts too high a price in lost wetlands, spoiled water supplies and ruined farmland.
A Hidden Cost of Farming
Published By: http://www.onearth.org
When Don Mavinic looks at cow manure he sees a puzzle in need of a solution. There's phosphorus locked in there, and the world is desperate for it.
Mosaic to Briefly Open Mine
Published By: The Ledger
Some 140 phosphate mine workers will see a brighter Christmas holiday after being called back to work for about four more months.
Mosaic Closing Exposes Flaw in the System
Published By: The Bradenton Times
There are many drawbacks to a weak economy rife with unemployment. For those struggling to find work, they are of course obvious. We live in a market-based economy that relies on ever increasing consumption, so whenever unemployment rises and spending decreases, the economy tends to contract, often leading to further cutbacks in employment and reduced consumer confidence because of anxiety over whether any of our jobs are safe. It is indeed a vicious cycle.
DeSoto’s mining overlay draws fire
Published By: DeSoto Sun
DESOTO COUNTY — The Florida Department of Community Affairs has objected to proposed changes to DeSoto County’s Future Land Use map. The DeSoto County Board of County Commissioners voted unanimously on May 25 to seek state approval of a map overlay that specifically defines where in the county a company may make an application to mine phosphate.
Billboard catching eyes in North Port
Published By: mysuncoast.com
Driving through North Port on I-75 you will see a new sign greeting you. Not a welcome sign, but a billboard condemning the phosphate industry. A local group is paying for the billboard which says the industry doesn't feed the world rather it pollutes it.
CF Industries to spend $12 million to settle federal complaint of improper waste handling
Published By: Tampa Bay Online
PLANT CITY - CF Industries has agreed to spend about $12 million to improve the way it handles and manages hazardous waste at a large fertilizer plant north of the city, federal officials said today.
Fertilizer Manufacturer Fined for Improperly Disposing of Hazardous Wastes
Published By: Industry Week
Phosphoric acid and ammoniated fertilizer manufacturer, CF Industries Inc., willl spend $12 million to implement facility-wide operational changes.
CF Industries Reaches Agreement Resolving EPA Notice of Violation
Published By: Market Watch
DEERFIELD, Ill., Aug 06, 2010 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- CF Industries Holdings, Inc. (CF 83.55, -0.76, -0.90%) today announced that it has agreed on the terms of a consent decree with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection involving compliance with the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). The agreement resolves a Notice of Violation (NOV) issued in 2005 that alleged that certain practices at the company's Plant City, Florida phosphate complex violated RCRA. The consent decree will not be final until it has been approved by a federal court.
Judge Bans Mosaic Mine Expansion, Layoffs To Be Evaluated
Published By: The Ledger
A federal judge ruled Friday to ban the Mosaic Co. from expanding its South Fort Meade Mine until the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers reviews less environmentally damaging alternatives to the project.
Judge tells Mosaic to halt work at site near Peace River
Published By: HeraldTribune.com
A federal judge has halted work at a 10,800-acre site in Hardee County that would bring mining closer to the Peace River and Charlotte Harbor watershed.
Judge halts Mosaic mining in Hardee
Published By: Bradenton.com
A federal judge has ordered Mosaic Co. to stop work at a recently permitted mine in Hardee County, citing “likely” damage to the Peace River and Charlotte Harbor if strip mining begins there.
Judge halts Mosaic mine
Published By: Charlotte Sun
A federal judge Thursday temporarily halted the Mosaic Company from strip mining on its 11,884-acre South Fort Meade Extension tract, in response to a motion for a restraining order in a lawsuit filed Tuesday by the Sierra Club and two other local environmental organizations.
Army Corps to conduct watershed summary
Published By: Charlotte Sun
After 13 years of prodding by environmentalists and politicians, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has decided to conduct a comprehensive study of the cumulative impacts of phosphate mining on the entire Peace River watershed.
Court: Fishermen can sue over Hillsborough Bay pollution
Published By: Tampa Bay Online
TAMPA - The Florida Supreme Court said Thursday that fishermen whose livelihoods are damaged by pollution may sue the companies responsible.
Renewed worries over plan for phosphate mine
Published By: HeraldTribune.com
Renewed worries about the impact of future phosphate mining have prompted city officials to consider asking state and federal regulatory agencies to assess the potential risks phosphate mining would have on the area's water supply.
Mining eyed upstream
Published By: Charlotte Sun
The DeSoto County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing May 4 to clear the way for future phosphate mining near Pine Level.
EPA sets scope for mining study
Published By: Charlotte Sun
Calling the Peace River watershed an "important and environmentally sensitive mining region," the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency again called for a comprehensive regional impact study on phosphate strip mining within the watershed this week.
Protect Peace River from strip-mining
Published By: tampabay.com
A dramatic new phase of phosphate mining along the Peace River in Southwest Florida is in the works, raising concerns about whether government will effectively protect the source of drinking water for 700,000 Floridians.
Mosaic won't buy rights to Charlotte stadium
Published By: Herald Tribune
The county's baseball stadium will continue to be called Charlotte Sports Park after the Tampa Bay Rays and the Mosaic Co. announced Wednesday that they had reconsidered a naming rights deal.
The Story of P(ee) – In which phosphorus, a substance present in every living cell, is being used
Published By: Miller-McCune
“P” is for phosphorus, the stuff of life, and “p” is for “peak phosphorus” by 2030, ecologists say, unless — presto! — pee can be turned into gold through modern-day alchemy.
Tampa Bay Rays pull Charlotte naming rights off meeting agenda after objections
Published By: tampabay.com
For years, Tampa Bay's Major League Baseball team was bedeviled by public relations disasters.
Its former owner raged at police after they pulled over his wife. The team shunned a charity fundraiser because it wasn't at Tropicana Field. Officials ejected a Mets scout from the stadium for using the owners' bathroom.
Getting a new owner and dropping the word "Devil" from the Tampa Bay Rays' name was supposed to signal a new day. But names can be tricky things.
Rays' spring naming-rights deal meets heavy resistance
Published By: tbo.com
The Charlotte County Commission met Tuesday morning to decide 'yea' or 'nay' on the new name for the Tampa Bay Rays spring training site in Port Charlotte, but the matter never came to a vote.
3PR, Sierra Club (Charlotte) and County Commissioner Object to Tampa Bay Rays Deal With Strip Miner
“It’s an outrageous slap in the face,” says longtime Charlotte County Commissioner Adam Cummings. “For years we fought Mosaic’s efforts to expand strip mining in the Peace River Basin. We spent $12 million doing it. Now the Tampa Bay Rays want to put the Mosaic name on our sports center. It’s as if Mosaic is going to get the naming rights for Florida Field and change its name from the “Swamp” to the “Clay Pit” because that is what they do to natural wetlands.”
EPA Mosaic Comment Letter
Click below to read the EPA Mosaic comment letter:
Phosphate industry earmarks draw fire
Published By: The Ledger
An environmentental group called Manasota 88 has raised an interesting question about the transparency of U.S. Rep. Adam Putnam’s Congressional earmarks when it comes to the phosphate industry.
HAMILTON COUNTY: Spill contaminates groundwater at PCS
Published By: Suwannee Democrat
An estimated 84 million gallons of contaminated processed water from PCS's Swift Creek plant was released into groundwater through a sinkhole discovered last Thursday between 3-4 p.m., according to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and PCS spokesman Mike Williams.
Mosaic ad campaign hides the truth about phosphate mining
Published By: HeraldTribune.com
Recently many Florida newspapers carried a 12-page advertising supplement from The Mosaic Co. with images of happy families and wildlife. Mosaic is the large Minnesota-based corporation which operates almost all of the phosphate mines in Central Florida.
Sinkhole near White Springs prompts well tests
Published By: Jacksonville.com
Wells near White Springs in Hamilton County are being tested for contamination after 84 million gallons of water from a fertilizer plant flooded a sinkhole, a state spokeswoman said Sunday.
Mosaic Co. to permanently close two idled Florida plants
Published By: Tampabay.com
Mosaic Co., a major producer of potash and fertilizer in southeastern Hillsborough and Polk counties, said Monday it will permanently close two plants idled in 2006 and write off additional machinery and equipment for a total write-down of about $50 million.
Mosaic gives up permit for Mulberry acid plant
Published By: Charlotte Sun
BARTOW – Mosaic Fertilizer agreed this week to give up its permit for a now-closed sulfuric acid production plant in Mulberry in partial settlement of a Clean Air Act action filed in federal court in New Orleans.
King of Rock
Published By: Forbes.com
The wealth of Morocco's monarch is up $1 billion over the past year as phosphate prices soared.
CF promises 'stewardship' in new mine
ONA -- CF Industries, on its next phosphate mine, will be required to preserve as much of the natural streams and wetlands as feasible and replace those resources destroyed acre-for-acre, according to a Florida Department of Environmental Protection official.
CF proposes new phosphate mine
Published By: Charlotte Sun
The Charlotte Harbor estuary will have a new phosphate mine in its watershed if CF Industries' recent application for a 7,500-acre mine wins approval.
Lee County opposes phosphate mine law
Published By: HeraldTribune.com
The Mosaic Co. spent six years in court defending its state permits for the 4,200-acre Ona mine near the Peace River. But when Lee and Sarasota counties contested a similar permit for a mine twice the size last year, the case catapulted through the judicial system in six months.
Manatee and Mosaic sued over mine expansion
Published By: HeraldTribune.com
A legal team with a successful track record of defending the environment sued the county and the Mosaic Co. on Tuesday to block expansion of a phosphate mine.
Mining opponents sue county
Published By: bradenton.com
Mining opponents sued Manatee County and Mosaic Fertilizer on Tuesday, contending county commissioners wrongly approved the company’s plans to mine the 2,048-acre Altman Tract near Duette.
A Deadly Cycle
Published By: tampabay.com
Every summer, a massive dead zone forms in the Gulf of Mexico. Last year, the dead zone was its second largest ever at 8,000 square miles, roughly the size of New Jersey. The EPA commissioned a study to research its cause. Florida's phosphate industry plays a role.
Mining proposal back before county today
Published By: BradentonHerald.com
Mosaic Co.’s eight-year effort to win Manatee County approval to mine a 2,048-acre tract for phosphate could end today. Opponents, though, are vowing to extend the fight — possibly in court.
From state mines to gulf dead zone: the trail of Florida phosphate
Published By: tampabay.com
For a good example of the law of unintended consequences, look no further than the nationwide push to promote ethanol. Ten years ago, federal officials became concerned that a common gasoline additive called MTBE, which reduces air pollution, turned out to be a carcinogen, causing major water pollution problems.
Mine plan OK'd in about-face
Published By: HeraldTribune.com
Fearing the county could lose a $617.8 million lawsuit, the Manatee County Commission voted Thursday to reverse a previous decision and approve an expansion of Mosaic Fertilizer's phosphate mine in Duette.
Manatee may allow phosphate mine
Published By: Charlotte Sun
Editor: On Jan. 15, the Manatee County Board of Commissioners, under the pressure of a threatened lawsuit, intend to allow a phosphate mine on the Altman tract.
Manatee Commission approves Mosaic mining expansion
Published By: HeraldTribune.com
Fearing a $618 million lawsuit, Manatee County commissioners today voted 5-2 to approve a plan by phosphate giant Mosaic to begin mining a 2,000 acre parcel in northeast Manatee.
County reverses stance on Mosaic mining plan
Published By: BradentonHerald.com
Despite the pleas of more than two dozen opponents, Manatee County commissioners reversed course today and gave the first set of approvals to Mosaic Co. to mine the Altman Tract for phosphate.
Judge urges EPA to OK phosphate mine permit
Published By: news-press.com
An administrative judge has ruled against Lee and Sarasota counties' request to stop a permit to extend phosphate mining into Hardee County.
Manatee to reconsider mine decision
Published By: HeraldTribune.com
Fearing a $618 million lawsuit, Manatee County commissioners agreed today to reopen public hearings on phosphate giant Mosaic’s plan to mine a 2,000 acre parcel in North Manatee.
New factors affect Mosaic suit
Published By: HeraldTribune.com
A lot has changed since the Mosaic Co. said in late September that it would sue Manatee County for $618 million. Global economic conditions have continued to erode. Financial outlooks for local governments have deteriorated further. And two new Manatee County commissioners have taken office.
Protect our water
Published By: bradenton.com
When the Manatee County Commission refused in September to grant Mosaic a permit to mine the Altman Tract, we hailed the decision to protect pristine wetlands that feed the river that supplies water for a quarter million people in southwest Florida.
Manatee County Commission reverses vote on Mosaic plan
Published By: wmnf.org
Despite protestations by environmentalists, the Manatee County Commission today voted to reverse its September denial of a 2,000 acre mining project in the Peace River Basin.
Mosaic Mine Advances
Published By: publicbroadcasting.net
Two of the Manatee County commissioners who had opposed the Mosaic mine earlier this year are no longer in office. That was reflected in a five-to-two vote opening the way for the world's largest phosphate processor to begin digging a 2,000-acre tract.
Mining project may find new life
Published By: HeraldTribune.com
MANATEE COUNTY - Facing a $618 million lawsuit from the world's biggest phosphate mining company, Manatee County may reverse its denial of a 2,000-acre mining project in the Peace River Basin.
Plunging stocks crimp Mosaic's growth plan
After soaring stock price gains earlier this year, the Mosaic Company is taking a financial hit that has crimped its plans to increase phosphate production in Southwest Florida.
County appeals secret meeting ruling
Published By: Charlotte Sun
The Mosaic Fertilizer company won the first round in its lawsuit aimed at forcing the Charlotte County attorney to release a transcript of a closed-door County Commission meeting held to discuss litigation against the company. But Mosaic probably won't win the next round, according to County Attorney Janette Knowlton.
Charlotte County argues Ona appeal
Published By: Charlotte Sun
Litigation proliferates over phosphate mining. To strip mine phosphate in Central Florida these days, Mosaic Fertilizer needs lots of land, digging machines and, apparently, lawyers. With representation from three law firms based in Tampa, Orlando and Tallahassee, Mosaic is defending itself against a spate of lawsuits and permit challenges under way simultaneously in four counties.
Court weighs environmental price of mining
Published By: tampabay.com
For nearly three hours, the lawyers argued. Every time they opened their mouths, all the dusty conflicts of the past eight years came crashing through.
But this fight was for the future.
Environmentalists Score Phosphate Mine Victory
Published By: media newswire
Bradenton, FL -- Earthjustice scored a major win today when the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers suspended a permit that gave Mosaic Phosphate the go-ahead to destroy 480 acres of high-quality wetlands within the Peace River watershed. "This permit suspension is a victory for the people of Manatee County and everyone who lives in the Peace River basin" said Earthjustice attorney Monica Reimer. "This establishes that the permit should never have been granted. It didn't comply with the law."
Permit suspension doesn't stop mining
Published By: Charlotte Sun
Some environmental groups are hailing it as a "victory," but the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' decision to suspend a permit for Mosaic Fertilizer's Altman Tract phosphate mine doesn't faze the company.
Agency reconsiders approval to dig up wetlands
Published By: tampabay.com
Federal officials have backed off their decision to allow the world's largest phosphate mining company to tear up 480 acres of wetlands south of the Sunshine Skyway bridge in Manatee County.
Mining permit is suspended
Published By: HeraldTribune.com
Environmentalists scored a victory -- at least temporarily -- against mining giant Mosaic Fertilizer on Monday when federal regulators suspended a permit that would have allowed mining on wetlands in northeast Manatee.
Federal permit withdrawn for Altman Tract
Published By: BradentonHerald.com
Phosphate mining giant Mosaic Fertilizer was dealt another setback Friday when the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers suspended a permit allowing mining at the Altman Tract in northeast Manatee.
New phosphate pact gives Mosaic an out
Published By: Charlotte Sun
The latest draft of a litigation settlement pact between Mosaic Fertilizer and Charlotte County gives Mosaic the right to opt out of its promises at any time if a "third party" challenges any of Mosaic's permits.
Mosaic files claim against county
Published By: BradentonHerald.com
Mining giant Mosaic Co. wasted little time in laying the groundwork for a $617 million lawsuit against Manatee County, less than two weeks after commissioners narrowly denied the company permission to mine the 2,048-acre Altman tract.
Mosaic threatens $618 million lawsuit
Published By: HeraldTribune.com
Florida mining giant Mosaic Fertilizer said Monday it will file a $618 million lawsuit against Manatee County unless commissioners reverse a Sept. 16 vote that denied permission for Mosaic to mine phosphate on a property in Duette.
Drawing a line on phosphate
Published By: heraldtribune.com
Mosaic Fertilizer owns land in our region by the tens of thousands of acres. Yet its refusal to protect 107 acres of high-value wetlands -- at a key location critical to the health of regional creeks and rivers -- led the Manatee County Commission to narrowly reject Mosaic's application to mine the 2,000-plus acre Altman Tract.
Manatee leaders reject Mosaic mining plan
Published By: Heraldtribune.com
The county could face a multimillion-dollar lawsuit after commissioners Tuesday rejected a proposal by Mosaic Phosphate to expand mining on land teeming with pristine wetlands.
Manatee commissioners deny Altman Tract mining
Published By: bradenton.com
In a landmark decision that's sure to have far-reaching consequences for both the environment and Manatee government, county commissioners Tuesday denied fertilizer giant Mosaic Co. the right to mine for phosphate on the 2,048-acre Altman Tract, capping a seven-year process of demands and concessions between the two sides.
Manatee commission denies Mosaic mine expansion
Published By: heraldtribune.com
County Commissioners this afternoon rejected a Mosaic Phosphate Co. plan to mine a 1,500-acre tract in northeast Manatee, a decision that may land both sides in a protracted legal battle.
Mosaic named in lawsuit alleging price-fixing
Published By: startribune.com
Mosaic and seven other large fertilizer companies are accused of price-fixing and collusion in a federal lawsuit filed Thursday in Minneapolis.
Lawsuit fear hobbles Manatee mine decision
Published By: Charlotte Sun
For the 23rd time in five years, the Manatee County Commission Thursday postponed approving a 2,048-acre phosphate mine in the headwaters of Horse Creek.
Several People Fall Ill From Inadvertent Sulfur Release
Published By: Brandon News & Tribune
Hillsborough County Fire Rescue responded to the area of Williams Park in Riverview after several residents complained tonight of an odor that made them ill.
Hardee planners approve Mosaic mine
Published By: Sun-Herald
The Hardee County Planning and Zoning Board gave its approval to a deal Thursday that would allow Mosaic Fertilizer to excavate a 10,856-acre mine along the Peace River -- and pump $42 million into county economic development projects as mitigation.
Fla. farmers face costliest season as fertilizer prices soar
Published By: Palm Beach Post
Just about every day, Dennis Wedgworth fields telephone calls from worried South Florida farmers, asking what fertilizer will cost them this fall. They can't be happy about his answer.
Lawsuit delays Mosaic decision
Published By: heraldtribune.com
Area environmentalists scored a victory on Thursday, albeit a temporary one, in their effort to block a controversial expansion of phosphate mining in Duette. The Manatee County Commission again delayed a vote on a plan by Mosaic Phosphate Co. to dig into 1,521 acres in the so-called Altman Tract and destroy about 400 acres of wetlands in the process.
In mining debate, one look says it all
Published By: Herald Tribune
During a hearing Tuesday to decide whether Charlotte County would challenge a phosphate company's permit to mine along the Peace River, commission chairman Tom D'Aprile called for a 10-minute recess.
Mosaic mine decision delayed again
Published By: bradenton.com
A federal lawsuit over the mining of phosphate from northeast Manatee's Altman Tract was enough to give local officials pause Thursday. A county vote on the 2,367-acre parcel was delayed for six weeks.
Principle vs. practice on mining
Published By: heraldtribune.com
In principle, these are easy calls: Local governments and regional authorities should vigorously fight phosphate mining that would damage vital streams, rivers or wetlands -- even when state and federal regulators approve the mines.
Altman mining opponents to file lawsuit
Published By: bradenton.com
Earthjustice, Sierra Club, ManaSota-88, People for Protecting Peace River and Gulf Restoration Network will hold a news conference at noon today to announce they will challenge a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers dredge-and-fill permit that authorizes 10 years of phosphate strip-mining on the Altman Tract in Manatee County's northeast corner.
Environmental groups sue over phosphate mining
Published By: Bay News 9
A group of environmentalist is suing over phosphate mining in Manatee County.
Three counties told to challenge mine
Published By: heraldtribune.com
A phosphate mining plan to destroy more than 500 acres of wetlands and streams near the Peace River should be challenged in court, consultants for Charlotte, Sarasota and Lee counties and a regional water supplier advised.
District scrutinizes Mosaic's mega water use
Published By: Charlotte Sun
Mosaic Fertilizer, the world's largest phosphate mining company, is applying to renew a mega water use permit that actually cuts back the amount the company would be allowed to pump by some 23 million gallons of water per day. Despite that reduction, approval won't come easy.
Group to challenge Altman dredging
Published By: bradenton.com
A regional office of the Sierra Club plans to file suit against the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers this week in an effort to block a controversial mining plan in the northeast corner of Manatee County known as the Altman Tract.
EPA Says Fort Meade Mine Would Hurt Peace River
Published By: Fort Meade Leader
The 10,885-acre South Fort Meade phosphate mine in Hardee County should not be approved because it would strip out wetlands and cause “significant adverse impacts” to the Peace River - an “aquatic resource of national importance,” according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
EPA blasts South Fort Meade mine
Published By: Sun Online
The 10,885-acre South Fort Meade phosphate mine should not be approved because it would strip out wetlands and cause “significant adverse impacts” to the Peace River — an “aquatic resource of national importance,” according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. In letters sent to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in July 2007 and August 2007, two EPA wetland permitting officials based in Atlanta leveled some heavy criticism of Mosaic Fertlizer’s proposal to excavate the mine over the next 21 years.
Phosphate foes 'blindsided'
Published By: Sun-Herald
Charlotte County was "blindsided" by a legislative maneuver that could limit mining appeals because it couldn't afford to pay attention, Commissioner Adam Cummings said.
Rally opposes Mosaic mining plan
Published By: BradentonHerald.com
Five speakers told a packed house Thursday why they think Manatee County should not allow the Mosaic company to mine in the 2,048-acre Altman Tract Parcel 4 near Duette.
Here's The Dirt: Phosphate's Hot
Published By: tbo.com
Savvy investors know dirt is not sold cheaply these days, certainly not the phosphate-laden earth mined for fertilizer production.
Mother lode for phosphate mining
Published By: Herald Tribune
Mosaic's network of phosphate mines that stretch across rural, central and Southwest Florida are generating record profits this year as demand for fertilizer soars.
Strip Mining Will Cause Net Loss for County
Published By: Herald Advocate
Economist Richard Weisskoff, Professor of Economics at University of Miami, has concluded that there will be no net economic gain to Hardee County from the proposed S. Ft. Meade Mine extension. In fact, strip mining agricultural acreage will result in a loss of 61 jobs and a loss of almost $8 million toHardee County economy every year over the life of the mine and beyond.
One Last Big Push for Phosphate Mining
Published By: Florida Trend
South-central Florida's landscape will be shaped in large part by a company many residents have never heard of. Mosiac is the only big player left in Florida's phosphate industry, and it controls more than 300,000 acres.
Phosphate mine closer to approval
Published By: HeraldTribune.com
Fearful of facing a $400 million lawsuit from mining behemoth Mosaic Inc., county commissioners on Monday voted to draw up a development order for a 2,048-acre mine expansion in northeast Manatee. The move does not mean the phosphate mining project is approved, but it is a strong indicator that the board will give it final approval in June.
The town that says 'Yes in my backyard'
Published By: HeraldTribune.com
Driving his pickup truck along dusty Bill Parrish Road, Pat Carlton slows down when he spots a tractor tilling dark, loamy earth. "Man, that's pretty," he said. "When you get it on your hands and you can't get it off, it gives me the fever to farm."
Mosaic makes its case — again
Published By: BradentonHerald.com
The Mosaic mining company may be getting a long-awaited decision from Manatee County on Monday.
After many deferrals, its request for a land-use change to mine for phosphate in the 2,048-acre Altman Tract Parcel 4 is scheduled to be heard on Monday before the county commission.
The proposed mine site is in the northeastern part of the county, adjacent to Mosaic's Four Corners Mine complex.
Hardee County Commission and Planning Board Meeting
On April 17th at 6:00 p.m. the Hardee County Commission and Planning Board will consider the permit for yet another phosphate mine in our county and the Peace River watershed.
State and water district aim to correct years of misuse
Published By: heraldtribune.com
Between decades of farming, phosphate mining and plain old turning on the faucet, residents almost tapped dry the water resources of eight counties in Southwest Florida.
Conference details mining's threat to state
Published By: bradenton.com
Joe Murphy, head of the Gulf Restoration Network, called mining in Florida "a direct threat" to Florida's $8.1 billion recreational fishing industry. Hydroecologist Sydney Bacchus said that mining makes permanent changes to the land - changes that can affect native vegetation and water resources.
Phosphate agreement hits a snag
Published By: bradenton.com
An agreement that promises to end legal battles with a phosphate mining company, while providing better protection for regional watersheds, has hit a wall for now, though some of the parties are still talking.
Ensure mining cleanup with escrow account
Published By: Herald Tribune
You recently published a guest column by Tom Myers, who is an assistant vice president of Mosaic, a phosphate mining company. It was titled "Mosaic builds environmental safeguards into Altman tract plan."
Mosaic Posts Record Profit
Published By: The Ledger
A nearly 42 percent increase in the price of the most popular fertilizer product sent the Mosaic Co. to a second consecutive quarter of record profit. Although the phosphate industry saw big price increases in the 1970s, "you've never seen anything that's gone up quite like this," said Mike Lloyd Jr., director of research programs at the Florida Institute of Phosphate Research in Bartow, who has more than 50 years in the industry.
A time to lead on Peace River plan
Published By: Sun Herald
OUR POSITION: It is time to for DeSoto to engage its neighbors in a discussion about the long term health of the Peace River Basin.
A committee created by Gov. Charlie Crist has been formed to make recommendations on the management of the Peace River Basin. This committee will make policy and suggest legal changes based on the results of a state sponsored cumulative impact study and with input from members of the committee.
A 25-square-mile phosphate mine in Hillsborough County
Published By: sptimes.com
Phosphate mine would put tropical fish farm at risk
Perhaps you have heard about the request by the Mosaic Co. to do open-pit mining on 25 square miles of land in far southeastern Hillsborough County.
A number of area residents have been trying to stop the rezoning of this land, but we are up against a huge company with lots of money and political clout. They have successfully changed two previous zoning hearings at the very last minute, perhaps expecting us to lose our momentum and hope.
Charlotte County race draws a crowd
Published By: Herald Tribune
Candidates hoping to replace three county commissioners this year promise to cut taxes, broaden the county's job opportunities and make government more efficient.
The six challengers say they are more financially savvy, sensitive to residents' needs and concerned about natural resources than the current commissioners.
The incumbents counter that change takes time, and that their experience and commitment make them the best people for the job.
Mosaic offers wetlands for Altman mine OK
Published By: Herald Tribune
Phosphate giant Mosaic Co.'s bid to expand its mining operation in northeast Manatee largely hinges on whether it can restore almost 400 acres of wetlands that are rich in wildlife.
Mosaic officials are so sure they can, they are willing to bet almost 600 acres on it.
The company has already promised to build a new fire station and park in Duette providing that Manatee County allow it to mine the Altman Tract, a 2,048-acre plot of land in Duette.
Study request 'too broad,' says federal chief
Published By: Sun Herald
The way the Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program requested a federal study not just to consider the impacts of phosphate mining, but also those of agriculture and residential development on both the Peace and Myakka rivers, provided the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers a reason to deny the request, according to several NEP committee members involved in the request.
Commission considering fate of Manatee phosphate-mining proposal
Published By: bradenton.com
Manatee County officials today could determine the future of a huge expanse of land in northeast Manatee and the hundreds of millions of dollars worth in minerals that lie beneath.
Wetlands mining decision delayed
Published By: bradenton.com
After several years of delay and nine hours of discussion Tuesday, county commissioners still didn't have enough information to decide on one of the largest projects ever to appear before them.
Should Manatee County approve phosphate mining permit?
Published By: bradenton.com
Yes: Altman request sets high mark of protections
The Altman mine permit has been perhaps the most scrutinized land-use application ever brought before Manatee County, and after nearly eight years of legal, environmental and regulatory review and compromise involving multiple entities, it sets an unprecedented standard for phosphate mines in Florida.
Mining task force overlooked impacts, scientist says
Published By: Sun Herald
A state task force considering ways to ensure the mining industry access to “strategic” gravel, sand and shell resources in the future — even over the objections of local government if necessary — completed a report to the Legislature this week.
Manatee commission to hear Mosaic dispute
Published By: bradenton.com
A Tuesday discussion before the Manatee County Commission pits the environmental concerns of a vocal minority against landowner rights, a new Duette fire station and a potential economic shot in the arm.
A time for Englewood to take lead
Published By: Sun Herald
OUR POSITION: It is time for the community to assert more leadership on the protection of the Peace River and Myakka River watersheds.
The pristine waters of the Myakka River and Lemon Bay are the liquid heart of Englewood. Making sure heart is healthy is perhaps the most important long-term goal for our community. There is a unique opportunity for Englewood to lead right now.
Protect our water supply: Reject plan to expand phosphate mine
Published By: Herald Tribune
Mosaic Co. is offering to build a fire station and a 70-acre park in Duette as part of the deal to mine approximately 2,028 acres for phosphate. The Manatee County Commission has scheduled a Feb. 5 public hearing on the plan, which would expand Mosaic's sprawling Four Corners mine in northeastern Manatee near the Hardee County line.
Mosaic deal should be revisited
Published By: Sun Herald
OUR POSITION: Opportunity lost with Mosaic settlement should be revisited by Sarasota County.
2007 was a banner year for Mosaic fertilizer. Its stock price soared 342 percent, the biggest gain among large-cap issues, revenues in its most recent quarter were up 55% to $2 billion, its production costs were down and its product prices were up.
Mosaic Mine Expansion A Rocky Proposal
Published By: tbo.com
The Tampa Tribune recently ran a story about a small band of Hillsborough County residents who are teaming up and gathering petitions against Mosaic Co.'s proposal to expand its Fort Lonesome and Four Corners phosphate mining operations by 1,599 acres.
Residents worry about contamination to their wells and toxic dust blowing in the wind, sometimes so thick you need your car's headlights turned on during the day in order to drive the nearby roads. They worry about cancer and respiratory illness. They worry about the constant noise of draglines. They want independent water testing and monitoring in addition to Mosaic's water quality tests. Their peace of mind has been shattered!
Manatee panel votes no on mine expansion because of wetlands concerns
Published By: Herald Tribune
An estimated 15 million tons of valuable phosphate are buried under the Altman Tract, 2,048 acres in northeast Manatee County. Unfortunately for phosphate giant Mosaic Co, which owns the land, the phosphate lies under pristine scrubland and more than 700 acres of wetlands that are rich in wildlife.
Charlotte, Lee counties at odds over Babcock, phosphate
Published By: Sun Herald
The Charlotte County Commission reluctantly accepted Lee County's invitation to discuss the proposed phosphate mining settlement Thursday. All but one of the members of the Charlotte County Commission made it clear that not only do they expect nothing to come from a tri-county meeting with Sarasota County, but, quite frankly, they aren't looking forward to the proposed discussion.
Authority puts off phosphate deal
Published By: Sun Herald
Doug Manson, attorney for the Peace River/Manasota Regional Water Supply Authority, pointed out that two of the four counties that make up the authority, Charlotte and DeSoto, have officially endorsed the Phosphate Compact. But the commissions of the other two counties, Sarasota and Manatee, have raised concerns over the deal.
Beware miners bearing gifts Does destroying wetlands offer 'public benefit'?
Published By: Herald Tribune
More than seven years into a battle to expand their Four Corners phosphate mine in northeastern Manatee County, officials at Mosaic Co. are offering to sweeten the deal by building a new park and fire station for the neighboring community of Duette.
Water panel postpones Mosaic decision
Published By: Bradenton Herald
Members of the Peace River Manasota Regional Water Supply Authority on Wednesday put off any decision on a proposed agreement with the Mosaic mining company until January, but that didn't stop Manatee Commissioner Jane von Hahmann from airing her concerns.
Mine deal approved despite public protests
Published By: Herald Tribune
Despite vigorous public outcry, county commissioners on Tuesday approved the signing of a compact that will drop all lawsuits against Mosaic Co. over its phosphate mine permits and prevent the county from opposing any new mines for 15 years.
The agreement requires that Mosaic follow more rigorous environmental standards to protect water quality in Charlotte Harbor.
Charlotte approves phosphate agreement
Published By: Sun Herald
Members of the County Commission hope they set in motion the end to lengthy, expensive phosphate litigation Tuesday in approving a compromise with Mosaic Fertilizer.
The commission approved the fertilizer compact in a 4-1 vote, but the terms of the agreement require that a total of four governing bodies sign on. Lee and Sarasota counties, as well as the Peace River/Manasota Regional Water Supply Authority, have yet to vote on the settlement.
Phosphate coverage appreciated by reader
Published By: Sun Herald
I wish to congratulate the Sun for it's integrity and honesty in presenting the true facts concerning the phosphate industry and the excellent reporting by staff writer Greg Martin.
Phosphate deal is deficient
Published By: Venice Gondolier
Another shining example of how Mosaic's settlement with the counties is deficient is with our current water shortage.
I believe businesses like phosphate mining and agriculture should have water restrictions to abide by just like citizens.
Mine pact falls short of goals, attorney says
Published By: Sun Herald
Charlotte County's environmental attorney says he plugged at least one "loophole" in a proposed phosphate mining pact, but warns that several other problems with the agreement remain.
However, Ed de la Parte, the county's special attorney on the deal with the Mosaic phosphate mining company, said he had not determined whether or not he would recommend the County Commission sign the pact at its meeting toda
Commission mines phosphate agreement
Published By: Sun Herald
Lawyers, hydrologists, utility managers and commissioners from both Sarasota and Charlotte counties gathered in North Port commission chambers Monday for a workshop on a proposed settlement pact with the Mosaic phosphate-mining company.
Although phosphate mining doesn't take place nearby, the industry can influence the regional water supply, including the Myakka River, the Peace River Basin and the Big Slough watershed area.
Phosphate settlement discussion today
Published By: Sun Herald
he divisive phosphate mining issue is set to take center stage with the Charlotte County Commission this afternoon, and supporters and detractors of a proposed settlement with Mosaic Company plan to pack the County Administration Building in Murdock.
Commissioner Tom Moore said he's been bombarded with phone calls and e-mails leading up to today's meeting, which will feature comments from Mosaic Company, county staff, the Peace River/Manasota Regional Water Supply Authority and members of the public.
Sun editorial on EIS a disservice to commission, county
Published By: Sun Herald
To say that our concern for an area-wide environmental impact study is deceptive or unimportant does a tremendous disservice to our community.
Phosphate public relations site to close
Published By: Sun Herald
The Charlotte County Commission says it's in the interest of positive negotiations.
The Charlotte County Commission opted to disconnect an anti-phosphate portion of its Web site Tuesday, but officials made it clear that all legal documents pertaining to mining negotiations will remain available on the county government's official page.
Complaint claims Duffy violated Sunshine Law
Published By: Sun Herald
Charlotte County Commissioner Tricia Duffy may have violated Florida's Sunshine Law by negotiating a litigation settlement pact with a phosphate mining company behind closed doors, according to a formal complaint an environmental advocate filed Tuesday with the State Attorney's Office.
Fertilizer ordinance clears first hurdle
Published By: Sun Herald
NORTH PORT -- Despite concerns from Commissioner Dick Lockhart about the difficulty of enforcing a proposed fertilizer ordinance, the first reading of that ordinance passed unanimously Tuesday night.
Commissioners wrong to settle with Mosaic
Published By: Sun Herald
Who in this world would ever agree to a marriage clause (with an already proven contentious proposed partner) that "I shall never again object to anything you do for the next 30 years?" That clause alone makes any other parts of the lopsided agreement just immaterial. Nothing else matters in the face of such an moronic ultimatum.
Settlement would save tax money
Published By: Sun Herald
All the tax money that has been spent to date on phosphate litigation and now it looks like more money. What a drain of our tax dollars. Of course, the lawyers like litigation. That is where the money is.
Commission to debate phosphate today
Published By: Sun Herald
The Charlotte County Commission will discuss the latest proposed settlement with Mosaic.
Commissioners should take phosphate test
Published By: Sun Herald
Because of the money that Mosaic is committing to this battle, our commissioners need to make a full disclosure to reassure the public that their decision will not be tainted. I challenge each county commissioner to answer the following five questions, on the record:
Peace River Panel Goal Is to Lessen Damage
Published By: The Ledger
BARTOW | Polk County Commission Chairman Bob English and Winter Haven environmentalist Marian Ryan are among those who will serve on a proposed 25-member Peace River Basin Management Advisory Committee.
Peace River Panel Goal Is to Lessen Damage
Published By: The Ledger
BARTOW | Polk County Commission Chairman Bob English and Winter Haven environmentalist Marian Ryan are among those who will serve on a proposed 25-member Peace River Basin Management Advisory Committee.
Why it is hard to reach phosphate settlement
Published By: Sun Herald
Phosphate litigation lingers because Mosaic and Charlotte County can not agree on what it means to safeguard the Peace River and Charlotte Harbor. Scientists do not agree how phosphate mining impacts the flow of water in the Peace River.
Latest deal
Published By: Sun Herald
A team of local government representatives and Mosaic Fertilizer have refined a proposed litigation settlement compact. Here's a look at the latest changes:
Team refines Phosphate Compact
Published By: Sun Herald
The latest draft of a local government team's proposed litigation settlement pact with the world's largest phosphate mining company now clarifies how a water quality monitoring program would be established and specifies that Mosaic Fertilizer will donate a reservoir site at no charge.
Florida Counties Try to Contain Phosphate Mines
Published By: NYTimes
PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. — Arguing that the State Environmental Protection Department is far too lax in regulating open-pit phosphate mines, three Gulf Coast counties are spending millions of dollars in an effort to keep the mines from further expansion in a major watershed.